In psychologically unsafe environments, where social threats are rife, brains are more likely to be vigilant, on high alert, looking out for the danger. Although threats manifest below our conscious awareness, what we may be aware of is a general unease or underlying tension, a slight anxiety, difficulty in relaxing, irritability, tension headaches, stomach issues, diminished self-control etc. We normally call this stress. And sometimes it only takes a small social threat, but one that’s quite particular to us, to start the ball rolling.